asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that almost daily a number of strong healthy horses suitable for ploughing or haulage are being exported from Dublin; and, if so, whether he has satisfied himself that, in the event of an oil or petrol shortage, these horses will not be missed by the farming and industrial community.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Export of Horses.
Mr. Byrne
I am aware that horses of the class referred to are being exported through Dublin Port. The numbers of such horses being produced are in excess of home requirements and the export trade provides a valuable outlet for the surplus and an incentive to farmers to retain their breeding mares, so that in the event of such an emergency as the Deputy's question envisages, their progeny would be available as a source of traction power.